Claustrophobia

Definition

Claustrophobia is an
anxiety
disorder characterized by irrational fear of enclosed or small spaces. People with claustrophobia often describe it as feeling trapped without an exit or way out. Claustrophobia involves emotional and physical reactions to triggering situations. The fear of claustrophobia may be intense, but treatment can help manage or overcome it.

Causes

The cause of claustrophobia is not well known, but it is likely a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase your chance of developing a claustrophobic anxiety attack include:

Family history

History of anxiety or nervousness when in an enclosed room or space

Repeated avoidance of situations that have brought on a previous anxiety attack

Symptoms

Claustrophobia usually develops early in life during childhood or the teenage years. Claustrophobia may bring on feelings similar to a
panic attack
, which may cause:

Sweating

Rapid heart beat

Shortness of breath or hyperventilation

Trembling

Lightheadedness or fainting

Nausea

Feelings of dread, terror, panic

Other symptoms of claustrophobia may include:

Automatically and compulsively looking for exits when in a room or feeling fearful if doors are shut

Avoiding elevators, riding in subways or airplanes, or cars in heavy traffic

Standing near exits in crowded social situations

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Diagnosis is based on your history of persistent or excessive fear that may:

Be triggered by anticipating an event or situation

Cause panic attacts associated with the fear-causing situation

Interfere with normal daily activities

That is not explained by another disorder

Treatment

Claustrophobia can disappear in adulthood. If it does not, treatment is usually necessary to overcome the fear. Talk with your doctor or mental health provider about the best treatment plan for you. Options include:

Psychotherapy

The most common type of treatment for claustrophobia involves mental health counseling targeted to overcoming the fear and managing triggering situations.

Different types of strategies include:

Relaxation and visualization techniques designed to calm the fear when in a claustrophobic environment

Cognitive behavioral therapy
(CBT)—an approach that involves learning to control the thoughts that occur when confronted with the fear-inducing situation in order to change the reaction

Medication

Your doctor may prescribe medications to control the panic and physical symptoms of claustrophobia. These include antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs. They will not cure the condition but are often helpful when used with psychotherapy.

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent claustrophobia.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.